THE DANGER OF LIMITING GOD

Yea, they TURNED BACK and TEMPTED God, and LIMITED the Holy One of Israel – Psalm 78:14

- Israel turned back…retreated…ran away
- Israel tempted God…
- Israel limited the Holy One of Israel.

The word “limited” infers putting a mark on the forehead; it means to ‘brand’ or ‘cast a stigma.’
- Israel set limits on the love, ability, power and blessings of God, beyond which He could not act
- Israel placed constraints upon the move of the Almighty
- Israel refused to give God a chance to prove Himself
- Israel circumvented and thwarted God and His desire to bless and give them the victory
- Israel was disposed to return to Egypt, from where she had been delivered from bondage
- Israel brought discredit on the divine name
- Israel exasperated divine patience

Israel limited God by SHRINKING: “The children of Ephraim, being armed, and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle” (Psa.78:9). God’s troops had everything they needed. God was on their side and He would fight for them. He had won battles where the soldiers never lifted a finger. All He required of them was to SHOW UP…to be AVAILABLE. They had been trained and had the right weapons; yet, when the battle became hot, they turned back, retreated, ran away and shrank when the opportunity surfaced!

Israel limited God through FEAR. God’s people didn’t turn back for lack of power, but because of fear! His power could have been demonstrated, His glory uplifted, His will displayed, but they limited God through fear.

Friend, God is on your side. He is able. All He needs is a vessel work through; a mouth to speak with; a hand to touch hurting humanity; and feet to bear His blessing. He will work in you, for you and through you. Only, refuse to shrink! Refuse to draw back! Refuse to retreat!

PONDER: In what ways am I limiting the Holy One of Israel? What divine openings or opportunities am I shrinking from?